Pakistan reward Arthur for keeping the faith

Trying to predict what happens next is a dangerous business, but the signs are that coach and captain are forging a strong relationship

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Dravid: Amir spell made for compelling viewing

Sometimes it is a delight to be proved wrong.

Two weeks after it seemed Pakistan's Champions Trophy campaign was doomed to failure, they have pulled off a victory every bit as unlikely as any in their history.

Yes, as unlikely as the 1992 World Cup win, when the Pakistan team contained several players that can reasonably be described as great.

And yes, as unlikely as the 2009 World T20 success, when the Pakistan team again contained some fine, experienced players.

This Pakistan squad contained three men - Fakhar Zaman, Rumman Raees and Faheem Ashraf - that made their ODI debuts during the tournament, a teenage legspinner (Shadab Khan) and a couple of more experienced campaigners that might uncharitably be described as journeymen. It came into the tournament ranked No. 8 in the world and so nervous about securing their place here that they pulled out of a tri-series event in Zimbabwe that took place a couple of weeks before qualification was finalised.

Their preparations can hardly have been helped by news that Umar Akmal had to be sent home, either, having once again failed to meet the fitness requirements. By the time Wahab Riaz limped out of the tournament at the end of that first game, the chastening defeat at the hands of India, even their coach Mickey Arthur was warning of "a reality check."

It was hard to be optimistic.

But maybe we should have known better. This is Pakistan, after all. And it is less than 12 months since their Test team stood on this same Oval outfield and celebrated reaching the top of the Test ratings. They keep defying our predictions. They keep surpassing our expectations.

It is the progress of the young players that has been most striking here. Conventional wisdom would suggest a team going into a high-profile global event requires experience and role definition.

Arthur's intolerance towards Akmal's fitness record, his decisiveness after Ahmed Shehzad fielded so poorly and batted with such caution in the first game sent out a clear message

But conventional wisdom didn't discover reverse swing or the doosra. Conventional wisdom wouldn't have thrust Wasim Akram into international cricket after a couple of impressive net sessions or Waqar Younis into the side after Imran Khan saw him on TV. Pakistan have often taken a bold approach to change that has given their cricket a fresh taste that few can match.

So here Pakistan appointed a new opening batsman (Zaman), a new fielder in the backward point position (Shadab, who might just go on to be seen as one of the best fielders the country has produced) and, when Mohammad Amir was injured ahead of the semi-final, they had no hesitation in asking Raees to take the new ball on his ODI debut.

You wonder what some of these young players - what this team - could achieve if they were given the advantages and opportunities of their rivals. Starved of cricket in their home nation, barred from the IPL, it is remarkable that they continue to produce players of such flair and resilience.

Both before the final and after, Arthur was keen to praise the contribution of the younger players. Describing the "one or two personnel changes" as "a breath of fresh air," he credited their willingness to buy into the "fearless brand of cricket" he and his captain desired as key factors.

The introduction of the PSL might be relevant, too. If players can graduate to international cricket as easily as Zaman has - and two half-centuries and a century in his first four ODIs suggest he has taken to it pretty well - the PSL might be preparing them for the big occasion a little better than had been anticipated.

But perhaps as relevant as the emergence of the young players is the curtain that appears to have been drawn around the careers of a couple of more experienced ones. There was a time in Pakistan cricket when you wondered what certain players had to do to be dropped, but not any more.

Arthur's intolerance towards Akmal's fitness record, his decisiveness after Ahmed Shehzad fielded so poorly and batted with such caution in the first game sent out a clear message. It said 'you buy in or you get out.' It said 'what was tolerated in the past is no longer acceptable.' It said 'times have changed.' Both may be young enough to come again, but they will have to prove they have embraced Arthur's approach.

You wonder whether previous coaches could have acted as decisively as Arthur. Whereas several of them were steeped in complicated political fabric of Pakistan cricket, Arthur is fresh and untainted. He has no ties or allegiances. He doesn't care if a former player alleges corruption or a politician demands the recall of a favoured player. He just wants what's best for the team. And it appears in Sarfraz Ahmed, like Misbah-ul-Haq before him, he has a captain who is similarly uncompromising.

Misbah's contribution bears restating. It would be hard to exaggerate the depths to which Pakistan cricket had sunk at the time he inherited the captaincy in 2010. It wasn't just the results - they will always come and go - it was that three players ended up in jail and the reputation of a team with a proud history was dragged through the mud. That Misbah was there, in the darkest moments, to rebuild the side will always be to his immense credit. This victory could not have happened without him.

But it may be Arthur's reaction to defeat in that first game against India that will be remembered as they key moment in this campaign. While some coaches might have ranted and raved - he sure had reason to do so - Arthur reasoned that to increase the pressure on a side who wilted in the spotlight that day would be counterproductive. Instead he held his course and tried to inject calm and confidence.

"If we had tried to train any more, we as a coaching staff, would have been seemed to be panicking," he explained. "And that's the last thing you want to do in those situations.

"We trusted the players. We trusted what we had put in place, but we had some good honest conversations. We had some conversation about stepping up. And the way they have turned things around is unbelievable.

"That first India game was an aberration. We didn't play anywhere near our capability.

"So we just had to keep believing. We have to keep them trusting the techniques and game plan. And that's why I say I'm incredibly proud of that dressing room. They kept on believing and they kept on trusting the game plan that Safraz and I had set up."

Maybe Pakistan were a touch fortunate. Maybe they were, in hindsight, fortunate that Wahab and Akmal's fitness injuries forced them into changes. Certainly they were fortunate that Zaman survived that edge when he had just 3.

But let nobody dismiss this success as a fluke. They have beaten the world's top-rated side (South Africa), the tournament favourites (England) and the defending champions (India) on the way to this success. And it wasn't their fault Jasprit Bumrah overstepped. Virat Kohli also survived an early life. He was unable to capitalise.

Where does all this leave Pakistan cricket? It is hard to be certain. Were the final to be replayed next Sunday, India would probably still be favourites. Arthur, a man who had seen five semi-finals in his time with South Africa, described the success as "surreal." It seems a pretty accurate description.

But it's a success that provides strong grounds for hope. To see Zaman swing with abandon, to see Azhar Ali continue to push himself to improve as a limited-overs batsman, to see Mohammad Hafeez skip down the pitch and drive his first ball for four, was to see a team united in purpose and committed to a selfless, bold approach.

And to see Amir and Hasan Ali move a ball that has proved begrudging and defiant to other seamers, was to be reminded of the remarkable skill levels that continue to develop within Pakistan. They are not the finished article and, even now, remain close to those battling for an automatic World Cup spot. But with this approach and young payers of whom much more can be expected, the future looks much brighter than it did a couple of weeks ago.

Despite the obstacles, despite the setbacks, despite logic, Pakistan cricket finds a way. There is some spirit, some defiance, some skill that has proved irrepressible. It is heartening and it is an inspiration. And it is a reminder for those of us who doubted them that no Pakistan side can ever be discounted.

Well put KARACHIKID64 - May I also add that it was great to see Azhar working on his batting. A work in progress but keen to buy into this positive approach. It may also benefit him in Test matches with his strike rotation improving although running between the wickets a real worry. Hopefully we continue to look at newer players and create healthy competition. I personally would like to see a consistent team and this may be the platform to achieve it. He who dares wins.

Mohammed
on June 20, 2017, 17:08 GMT

Mickey Arthur deserves lot of praise/appreciation for his role in making this young Pakistan team an international Cricketing giant. PCB must back this Coach in the interest of Pakistan Cricket. He should be given full powers and authority. All including Captain, Players & other Coaching Staff MUST work with him. Mickey Arthur efforts have started paying off.

frankj5872380
on June 20, 2017, 12:12 GMT

as a saffer I have to say this Pakistani team are looking like the real deal. If these players stay together and create a strong core of players both in odi and tests then I can see them reaching number 1 in both formats. The Pakistani bowlers would have sent a few shivers through all international teams this tournament that's for sure.

M
on June 20, 2017, 11:45 GMT

Kohli was lucky to be reprieved but failed to capitalise. He is right up there with Srikkanth, when Imran called him back after an lbw, only to have him caught out the next ball. Pakistan regularly gives favours to the opposition - sometimes you capitalise, sometimes you Kohli.

Hamid
on June 20, 2017, 9:19 GMT

It was whipping long time coming. Well done Pakistan.

badboycricfan
on June 20, 2017, 9:11 GMT

Arthur isn't the reason Pakistan won... Sarfaraz Fakhar Aamir and Hasan are the reasons Pakistan won... Micky was coaching earlier too, but it was Sarfaraz who turned the screws with brilliant captaincy and self belief... Pakistan have won tha championship as simple as that... people should stop complaining and start applauding... b/c no one thought they would...

ABDUL ALEEM
on June 20, 2017, 8:36 GMT

People saying this final win was a fluke because Fakhar got chance by getting out on no ball by Bumrah. What about Kohli. He got reprieved by a dropped catch. But simply couldn't capitalise because ruthless Amer got him again on next ball. So even if cricket is by chance but you have to make most of chance to win. Kohli failed in that. Simple. So it's a well deserved win.

Daisy
on June 20, 2017, 6:34 GMT

The real credit goes to Azhar Mehmood who teaches these young bowler skills to bowl swing and seam on English condition. No other team was able to swing and seam in England on flat wickets. Some people were saying England tracks are flat and there will be no swing and seam, but swing comes because of wrist position and Pakistani bowlers are best in the world they can generate movement on any track.

Tashfeen
on June 20, 2017, 4:34 GMT

Hope to see Arthur having more success with this young Pakistan team. He strengthened the south african side but remained unlucky every time with the tournament's favourite team but now he found success with underdogs and this Pakistan side may bring more success to him. best of luck Mickey

Anver
on June 20, 2017, 4:22 GMT

Arthur's hard work paid off !! Hail Pakistan Team !!!

Reza
on June 22, 2017, 15:03 GMT

Well put KARACHIKID64 - May I also add that it was great to see Azhar working on his batting. A work in progress but keen to buy into this positive approach. It may also benefit him in Test matches with his strike rotation improving although running between the wickets a real worry. Hopefully we continue to look at newer players and create healthy competition. I personally would like to see a consistent team and this may be the platform to achieve it. He who dares wins.

Mohammed
on June 20, 2017, 17:08 GMT

Mickey Arthur deserves lot of praise/appreciation for his role in making this young Pakistan team an international Cricketing giant. PCB must back this Coach in the interest of Pakistan Cricket. He should be given full powers and authority. All including Captain, Players & other Coaching Staff MUST work with him. Mickey Arthur efforts have started paying off.

frankj5872380
on June 20, 2017, 12:12 GMT

as a saffer I have to say this Pakistani team are looking like the real deal. If these players stay together and create a strong core of players both in odi and tests then I can see them reaching number 1 in both formats. The Pakistani bowlers would have sent a few shivers through all international teams this tournament that's for sure.

M
on June 20, 2017, 11:45 GMT

Kohli was lucky to be reprieved but failed to capitalise. He is right up there with Srikkanth, when Imran called him back after an lbw, only to have him caught out the next ball. Pakistan regularly gives favours to the opposition - sometimes you capitalise, sometimes you Kohli.

Hamid
on June 20, 2017, 9:19 GMT

It was whipping long time coming. Well done Pakistan.

badboycricfan
on June 20, 2017, 9:11 GMT

Arthur isn't the reason Pakistan won... Sarfaraz Fakhar Aamir and Hasan are the reasons Pakistan won... Micky was coaching earlier too, but it was Sarfaraz who turned the screws with brilliant captaincy and self belief... Pakistan have won tha championship as simple as that... people should stop complaining and start applauding... b/c no one thought they would...

ABDUL ALEEM
on June 20, 2017, 8:36 GMT

People saying this final win was a fluke because Fakhar got chance by getting out on no ball by Bumrah. What about Kohli. He got reprieved by a dropped catch. But simply couldn't capitalise because ruthless Amer got him again on next ball. So even if cricket is by chance but you have to make most of chance to win. Kohli failed in that. Simple. So it's a well deserved win.

Daisy
on June 20, 2017, 6:34 GMT

The real credit goes to Azhar Mehmood who teaches these young bowler skills to bowl swing and seam on English condition. No other team was able to swing and seam in England on flat wickets. Some people were saying England tracks are flat and there will be no swing and seam, but swing comes because of wrist position and Pakistani bowlers are best in the world they can generate movement on any track.

Tashfeen
on June 20, 2017, 4:34 GMT

Hope to see Arthur having more success with this young Pakistan team. He strengthened the south african side but remained unlucky every time with the tournament's favourite team but now he found success with underdogs and this Pakistan side may bring more success to him. best of luck Mickey

Anver
on June 20, 2017, 4:22 GMT

Arthur's hard work paid off !! Hail Pakistan Team !!!

Steven
on June 19, 2017, 20:46 GMT

Lol where are all the Indians. Well done PAK hope this leads to some consitently good cricket from you guys. PAK has always seemed to be an "any given day" team, but maybe now with Arthur and Inzi running the show and some good talent it will change.

karimm1329628
on June 19, 2017, 20:30 GMT

I think It's more fair to say that this victory happened in spite of Misbah for while it's true that he certainly brought Pakistan out of the mire when he assumed the captaincy his over-cautious batting approach also permeated the ODI team and as a result killed the natural flair and curbed their attacking instincts, aggression & passion which are the particular hallmarks of Pakistani teams. All these attributes have been missing from their ODI cricket but were on show in the tournament especially the final. It is surely no coincidence that they played this way under Sarfraz's captaincy since he is in the mould of the typical street-fighting Pakistan player like Javed Miandad. Even when playing under Misbah Sarfraz brought a fearlessness to his batting, being positive and energising the team. Long may that continue since it feels terrific to have the real Pakistan back.

mr100m7811890
on June 19, 2017, 20:10 GMT

Indians won IPL and v won cricket

Jawwad
on June 19, 2017, 20:09 GMT

First of all a no ball is an illegal delivery. A bowler stepping over the crease gets an added advantage by shortening the distance between ball reaching the batsman. That's why we witness lot of wickets on no balls because bowler had an unfair advantage, although just inches. But you know cricket is a game of inches. And that's a reason bowler is asked to repeat the delivery. Case closed. Well played Pakistan. Hats off to India for reaching the finals.

nasirk3548245
on June 19, 2017, 18:14 GMT

I think some of the key decisions and actions to take would be as follows:

1. Develop Fakhar's batting technique by some good batting coaches. His footwork needs some help. His front foot usually goes forward on every ball, and thats why he struggles on short pitch deliveries. Not only our batting coach can help but some of ex playes such as Mohammad Yousaf or Inzi can help.

2. Help transform batting of Azhar Ali to be suitable for ODI. Azhar is technically an extremely strong batsman and has scored hundreds, double hundreds and triple hundreds in test cricket. We need someone like Azhar to hold one side from the top order while guys like Fakhar and Sharjeel have a go at the bowlers. If you see all other teams you have guys who play all three formats of the game such as Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Kame Williamson, Steve Smith, David Warner and AB Devilliers. I think Azhar Ali is trying hard and with some help will develop into that anchorman role.

And another South African COACH wins a major ICC trophy for another country...

umar271894478
on June 19, 2017, 17:09 GMT

Credit goes to Mickey Arthur for sticking with this batch of young players. This was the very team that lost 4-1 to England in the same conditions last year, and are now winners of the Champions Trophy. Getting rid of the Akmals was a brave decision, but one that certainly worked well. He should stay with the team and look for more success.

Imran
on June 19, 2017, 16:52 GMT

@armaani15
I'm not sure what you are getting at but I do remember the luck Kholi had. He didn't capitalise on it.

iserum2002@yahoo.com
on June 19, 2017, 15:39 GMT

There are some good cricketers in line, hafeez, malik and shezad has to go make room for new players for world cup, this has to happen.

N
on June 19, 2017, 14:33 GMT

What a sea change from the press conference on June 4 !! Fortunately for Pakistan, Wahab Riaz got injured and Ahmed Shehzad deservedly got the boot. Not withstanding their performance in the finals, the places of Azhar Ali and Mohd. Hafeez in the team also need to be questioned. However for the moment, Arthur made a Mickey of all opposition. Well done.

nasirk3548245
on June 19, 2017, 14:07 GMT

I would give credit of this success to trio of Sarfraz, Mickey Arthur and Inzamam ul Haq who heads the selection committee. Inzi is the man who injected players like Hasan Ali, Roman Raees, Faheem Ashraf, Shadab khan and Fakhar into the squad.

Mohammad Nauman
on June 19, 2017, 14:01 GMT

@Thatsunnyday: so you means they are not the world beaters since you started watching this game that is last 30 years that's what you said in your previous comment. Hmm... Seriously don't understand that how can you say this.. Champions of worldcup 1992, champions of Benson

Mohammad Nauman
on June 19, 2017, 13:51 GMT

@Thatsunnyday: so you means they are not the world beaters since you started watching this game that is last 30 years that's what you said in your previous comment. Hmm... Seriously don't understand that how can you say this.. Champions of worldcup 1992, champions of Benson

Julian
on June 19, 2017, 13:49 GMT

Well Well Well SA .... look what a coach from SA without any "distractions" can achieve ..... Lets not forget Gary Kirsten before him either ....

davebu7489142
on June 19, 2017, 13:13 GMT

@CRICFAN05094208 It is also hilarious to read your comments my friend. You think that there were no planning involved in winning all these games. There were always planning to win these games but you could say (pak vs lanka) that our batting didn't perform as per expectations but then there were sarfaraz and amir who took that game away from srilanka. Fakhar could have been out at 3 but he wasn't and kohli was out twice but you can't say that there were no planning. anyone can see we changed our approach right after India game. we played with more aggression and with more passion. We wanted to win and we did it in style. SALUTE PAKISTAN :)

khurra4163103
on June 19, 2017, 13:05 GMT

As someone said brilliantly... "The luminescent captaincy .... Sarfraz and Mathews. Take them away and the respective team effectiveness quotient is 50%."

sohail
on June 19, 2017, 12:54 GMT

credit to micky, for the first time we could see some planning in pakistan matches, good captaincy by sarfaraz and every bowler has praised azhar mehmood so he must have done some magic, now its time to get rid of some players who have taken there place for granted which included wahab riaz, ahmed shezad and umer akmal and i dont think hafeez or malik should also play every match, if we have a bench strength with players like faheem, ruman, we could always make them sit and make place for other players

rynelr8107044
on June 19, 2017, 12:51 GMT

Micky Arthur is fully capable of getting a side to win a world championship but couldn't do it with SA, just goes to show that quota systems don't win you world cups

Daniyal
on June 19, 2017, 12:51 GMT

Pakistan peaked at the right time, and it is safe to expect that they will most likely not repeat such performances in the near to medium term. That said, in all honestly India is highly over rated. People talk about their fielding which has been above average at best. The same can be said of their bowling which has only improved relative to the Indian bowling attacks of yesteryears. Finally, they were handed a more than comfortable defeat by Sri Lanka in the league stages.

khurra4163103
on June 19, 2017, 12:35 GMT

It is pretty hilarious Arthur's claim of any game plan. I think he forgot the lucky escape vs Srilanka. He forgot the weakness in the batting lineup. Infact it was the bowling attack supported by brilliant captaincy of Sarfraz and coaching of Azhar Mehmood that won the matches for Pakistan throughout the tournament. No fielding and batting. Fakkhar got out for 3 runs and Azhar dropped Kholi. It was Amir that did it again got Kholi out twice equivalent of a whole 6 wickets. Arthur forgot his statement showing his lack of determination and trust about his plan with "BIG IF". Since Pakistan has won GOLD claims coming from everywhere.

nihari4763165
on June 19, 2017, 12:34 GMT

@STRANGENAUMAN438: I know I'm not a professional but neither are most fans. I am far from jealous of their win, they completely deserved to lift the trophy. My only point is to caution against using words like strong for a team of this composition. Their senior players are tentative at best, their junior players are still raw. The only strong thread in this team is Amir, who's a genuine world class performer. Once these guys have proven that they can repeat these feats on a more consistent basis, I'll be the first one to call them a great side. Also, however exciting it might be, fans should know that a tag of being unpredictable will always keep you short of being true world beaters. Strong teams always start favourites, even if they lose on some days. That's where Pak fans should aspire to see their team at, rather than being content with just unpredictable. Ind, Aus and SA always start as favourites, and that makes them strong teams.

Mohammad Nauman
on June 19, 2017, 12:17 GMT

@Thatsunnyday, dear simple reply for your mean assessment is that "don't be jealous" we are the champions of 2017.we don't need your comments and analysis because you are not a professional. Good luck. Many pundits and fortunetellers are failed to predict about Pakistan. We don't claim to be the best but, we can jolt any huge structure and demolished through our unpredictable nature. People love the surprises that's human nature and we always love to remain the surprise package for the world.

shakil4022424
on June 19, 2017, 12:08 GMT

thanks team Pakistan and management for making my EID special.

sajid
on June 19, 2017, 12:00 GMT

Time for pakistan to march towards top 5 ranked teams...tough ask but possible!

kendal6601268
on June 19, 2017, 11:13 GMT

@Coarsecricketer: Couldn't agree with you more. To see QDK, one of the world's most exciting attacking batsmen, poking around on the pretext of "laying a platform" almost made me give up. That is what Amla is for. SA is steeped in conservatism and fear of failure. I really hope they were watching this and something clicks. I feel India also came up short because of very conservative selection and tactics. They are like SA in a way - they stick to the tried and trusted methods. I will take joy out of this not only for my second-favourite team winning but the sight of a happy South African sitting next to an ICC trophy: it's possible!

kallappa
on June 19, 2017, 10:54 GMT

Great team indeed! Well played. Not easy to beat 3 solid teams, and all comprehensively. These 15 days belonged to them and destiny was written that way. Cheers!

infokn1051552
on June 19, 2017, 10:14 GMT

As Mickey himself said - it is not about him but about the team. Azhar Mahmood obviously did a great job as well. If only South African players could perform under South African coaches the way India and Pakistan have. Congratulations Pakistan - very happy for you.

bhanu67325088
on June 19, 2017, 10:13 GMT

Fukhar's counter attack was brilliant strategy unleashed by Arthur.The left hander' s with his no holds barred approach unsettled most of the bowlers who were clueless where to pitch against him. True he had his slice of luck but in ODI's attack is the best mode and Fukhar was Pakistan's trump card. What's freshening is that Arthur has molded bunch of enthusiastic youngsters into world beaters.The win should be a real boost to a team which started at the bottom of the table when the CT started.

Richard
on June 19, 2017, 10:06 GMT

Well done Pakistan, you thoroughly deserved your win! - and I say this as a long-time supporter of South Africa. The Proteas need to learn from you. They must stop playing their percentage-stick-to-the-'game plan'-at-all-costs cricket and inject a bit of Pakistani fearlessness, flair and unpredictability into their play. It saddens me to see their one of their best batsmen, Quinton de Kock, shackled and hobbled by some timid strategy dreamed up by a committee, when he should be playing his natural game and smashing the ball to all parts.

Arman
on June 19, 2017, 10:04 GMT

@DarthGorilla, Luck gave a chance to India as well. Remember Kohli's dropped catch by Azhar? Of course not, people will not remember that one because Kohli didn't move on to make a hundred afterwards. Let me show you a better perspective here. While Fakhar capitalized the chance he got from Bumrah, Kohli failed to do so. Kohli received equal amount of luck but unlike Bumrah and India, Amir and Pakistan didn't let him get away with it.

prince7959078
on June 19, 2017, 9:57 GMT

Credit to Mickey arthur , Azhar Mahmood and Sarfaraz Ahmad and Inzimam the selector too he is better selector than all previous

danish5986826
on June 19, 2017, 9:54 GMT

Class Act by Pakistan.
Congratulations to all Pakistanis

Daisy
on June 19, 2017, 9:22 GMT

The real credit goes to Azhar Mehmood, who teach young bowlers skills, pakistan will be no 1 team soon. pakistan have all wicket taker bowler and now have good batsman to destroy any bowling line up. Its because of PSL all these young guys are coming and performing like champion on big stage.

Imran
on June 19, 2017, 9:20 GMT

I would consider Zaman being "lucky" if a mistake had been made in his survival. It was an illegal delivery.

The ball hitting the edge and missing the edge is the difference of a few millimetres. Who's to say he might still have edged it had the bowler released the ball from a few inches further back?

mahmoo3521013
on June 19, 2017, 9:17 GMT

congrats to Arthur as well who couldn't live in a moment this Pak have given him, even when he was coach of gr8 SA

Khurram S Chaudhry
on June 19, 2017, 9:12 GMT

Coach, bowling coach and captain along with players should get credit for this achievement. But keeping faith and selecting right combination, i dont think they are there yet. Lets be honest here, If wahab wasnt unfit, he would have been playing like he has been for 2 years when without much performances. Ahmed failed and finally got out but he was selected. Imaads performance is also questionable but some how he plays all games. I hope we can learn from this. Young players out performed seniors here. So this is a sign to move on. Questions remains on performance of Hafeez and Malik. this win was because group of others performed. Hassan was star in bowling well suported by Amir , Junaid and even those who played 1 game. Fakhar was superb in batting he was supported well by Azhar at top with Babar, sarfraz and hafee making some contributions.

tass
on June 19, 2017, 9:05 GMT

@thatsunnday you say only a strong side? Beating the worlds number one team, the hosts and favourites and the champions requires skill and talent. Pakistan even with all their dis advantages have simple stuck two fingers up to the ICC and the so called big 3! You call it a weak bowling attack?? Hahaha have you watched what they did to the two best attacks on the planet, the ease which they dis mantled them. Pure deserved champions

Richard
on June 19, 2017, 9:05 GMT

Well done Pakistan, you thoroughly deserved your win! - and I say this as a long-time supporter of South Africa. The Proteas need to learn from you. They must stop playing their percentage-stick-to-the-'game plan'-at-all-costs cricket and inject a bit of Pakistani fearlessness, flair and unpredictability into their play. It saddens me to see their one of their best batsmen, Quinton de Kock, shackled and hobbled by some timid strategy dreamed up by a committee, when he should be playing his natural game and smashing the ball to all parts.

Daisy
on June 19, 2017, 9:03 GMT

The real credit goes to Azhar Mehmood, who teach young bowlers skills, pakistan will be no 1 team soon. pakistan have all wicket taker bowler and now have good batsman to destroy any bowling line up. Its because of PSL all these young guys are coming and performing like champion on big stage.

Daisy
on June 19, 2017, 9:00 GMT

Pakistan will only go up from hare now, most pakistani players are teens and they will have 8 to 10 years, that means they can rule cricket for next 8 to 10 years. This ranking system is flawed, most team won on home ground on home wickets. Pakistan thrash india in all department, India has the weakest bowling line up, they put so many batsman and forget to putting quality geniune bowler, bowler win you matches.

geoffs8103821
on June 19, 2017, 8:55 GMT

Not many Indian texts what happened to your team overrated I feel

atifsh8564988
on June 19, 2017, 8:47 GMT

very beautifully crafted... Any change takes times for its effectiveness... let's all accept the fact that misbah was a great player but was very defensive captain and was totally misfit in modern cricket..fakhar should evolve and overcome his weaknesses if any which were explored by Indian bowlers... the time is near that Pakistan will again b rated amongst the top teams

Omarr
on June 19, 2017, 8:42 GMT

stop saying that Pak pulled out of a tri tournament. There never was a cinfirmation from PCB ever. WI tweeted that there is one going to be. Pak was only scheduled to play Zim in Zim, which they duly played.

nihari4763165
on June 19, 2017, 8:30 GMT

Pakistan played well and won the trophy. That's as far as it goes I'm afraid. While they richly deserve plaudits for this win, only shortsighted fans can dub them as a "strong" side. They are not even a good side, let alone being a strong one. Give them enough game time and they will unravel. I take no pleasure in saying this, but that's how it has happened all throughout their history. I know this much after having followed world cricket for over 30 years. They have a weak batting unit, a lazy fielding unit and a less than effective bowling unit on various pitches. No decent spinners, no backup keepers of quality and sadly, not enough cricketing smarts in their captain. Teams like Aus, Eng, SA and Ind are rarely denied a trophy in this fashion. Let's enjoy what this is - an oddity, an aberration, an anamoly, a freak sporting bit of trivia for the posterity to savour. Congratulations to the victors.

Dhirshan Gobind
on June 19, 2017, 8:28 GMT

Amazing how Arthur now and Gary Kirsten with the World Cup with India, have won ICC titles but SA still have nothing.

imran
on June 19, 2017, 8:26 GMT

Pakistan and West Indians are beauty of cricket.. I missed our brotherly windies celebrations in tournament. Great resilient nation.

Jose
on June 19, 2017, 7:44 GMT

Can I forward the following extracts from this report to Anil Kimble?

.

"Arthur's intolerance towards Akmal's fitness record, his decisiveness after Ahmed Shehzad fielded so poorly and batted with such caution in the first game sent out a clear message"

.

I wish to do this, despite, I dubbing Mickey Arthur, a "Home-Work obsessed Head Master", in the past!

shahrukh
on June 19, 2017, 2:50 GMT

A wonderfully crafted article Mr. Dobell. My deep compliments to you!

Kazim
on June 19, 2017, 2:07 GMT

Excellent coaching by micky artuher
I believe if he will stay in PCB as a head coach next few years. International cricket lover will see uprising in pak team. He got ability guts to take decsion in any condition. Secondly he doesn't have any thing to lose or any personal reason with any cticketer or PCB member. He will only do his job

Saami
on June 19, 2017, 0:47 GMT

Thanks George for such a heartfelt, emotional & happy article. Hope that this WIN aspires millions for Pakistani kids to defy the odds, work hard, focus on glory and may it instill that believe we had growing up in the 90s. May this be the end of terrorism in the country, start of economic prosperity and happy, normal times. Moments like these are needed to inject health & strength into building societies. Yes, it is just Cricket and we shouldn't expect or burden this success with too much just yet. That it can heal the Social fabric of a struggling Society is wishful for sure. But, hey its Pakistan and may this serve as many new great beginnings. A passionate country where the folks just dare away in conquering the unthinkable - anything is possible like we breathed today.

Md Risalat
on June 18, 2017, 22:58 GMT

The 1992 team had three (Imran, Miandad and Akram a future great) of the greatest cricketers in the history of cricket. That helped eventually. They also had the fantastic Inzi, Mushtaq, Moin and Aqib followed by the journeymen Sohail, Rameez and Malik. Funnily enough, in the 2017 squad they had another Malik as one of the two journeymen. Amir, Junaid, Hasan, Fakhar, Babar are future greats. And then the players who will never be regarded greats but will still have fantastic careers - Sarfraz, Shadab, Imad, Azhar. I have a feeling that Umar Akmal will have a final chance to resume his career under Sarfraz and Mickey and he will finally establish himself in the upper-middle order in place of Malik/Hafeez. And hopefully, Pakistan will come to realise that it's essential to have a seam/fast bowling allrounder in Faheem as a long-term option. Also, adios, Wahab Riaz - even Rumman Raees came in and bowled like a veteran. I'm intently looking forward to their next tour to NZ-AUS.

Stephen
on June 18, 2017, 22:51 GMT

I don't think any coach's career has had the ups and downs of Mickey Arthur and hope he enjoys these next few months... before the inevitable down turn!

Rizwan Khokhar
on June 18, 2017, 22:29 GMT

wonderful read, world cricket is better with Pakistan in it

No featured comments at the moment.

Rizwan Khokhar
on June 18, 2017, 22:29 GMT

wonderful read, world cricket is better with Pakistan in it

Stephen
on June 18, 2017, 22:51 GMT

I don't think any coach's career has had the ups and downs of Mickey Arthur and hope he enjoys these next few months... before the inevitable down turn!

Md Risalat
on June 18, 2017, 22:58 GMT

The 1992 team had three (Imran, Miandad and Akram a future great) of the greatest cricketers in the history of cricket. That helped eventually. They also had the fantastic Inzi, Mushtaq, Moin and Aqib followed by the journeymen Sohail, Rameez and Malik. Funnily enough, in the 2017 squad they had another Malik as one of the two journeymen. Amir, Junaid, Hasan, Fakhar, Babar are future greats. And then the players who will never be regarded greats but will still have fantastic careers - Sarfraz, Shadab, Imad, Azhar. I have a feeling that Umar Akmal will have a final chance to resume his career under Sarfraz and Mickey and he will finally establish himself in the upper-middle order in place of Malik/Hafeez. And hopefully, Pakistan will come to realise that it's essential to have a seam/fast bowling allrounder in Faheem as a long-term option. Also, adios, Wahab Riaz - even Rumman Raees came in and bowled like a veteran. I'm intently looking forward to their next tour to NZ-AUS.

Saami
on June 19, 2017, 0:47 GMT

Thanks George for such a heartfelt, emotional & happy article. Hope that this WIN aspires millions for Pakistani kids to defy the odds, work hard, focus on glory and may it instill that believe we had growing up in the 90s. May this be the end of terrorism in the country, start of economic prosperity and happy, normal times. Moments like these are needed to inject health & strength into building societies. Yes, it is just Cricket and we shouldn't expect or burden this success with too much just yet. That it can heal the Social fabric of a struggling Society is wishful for sure. But, hey its Pakistan and may this serve as many new great beginnings. A passionate country where the folks just dare away in conquering the unthinkable - anything is possible like we breathed today.

Kazim
on June 19, 2017, 2:07 GMT

Excellent coaching by micky artuher
I believe if he will stay in PCB as a head coach next few years. International cricket lover will see uprising in pak team. He got ability guts to take decsion in any condition. Secondly he doesn't have any thing to lose or any personal reason with any cticketer or PCB member. He will only do his job

shahrukh
on June 19, 2017, 2:50 GMT

A wonderfully crafted article Mr. Dobell. My deep compliments to you!

Jose
on June 19, 2017, 7:44 GMT

Can I forward the following extracts from this report to Anil Kimble?

.

"Arthur's intolerance towards Akmal's fitness record, his decisiveness after Ahmed Shehzad fielded so poorly and batted with such caution in the first game sent out a clear message"

.

I wish to do this, despite, I dubbing Mickey Arthur, a "Home-Work obsessed Head Master", in the past!

imran
on June 19, 2017, 8:26 GMT

Pakistan and West Indians are beauty of cricket.. I missed our brotherly windies celebrations in tournament. Great resilient nation.

Dhirshan Gobind
on June 19, 2017, 8:28 GMT

Amazing how Arthur now and Gary Kirsten with the World Cup with India, have won ICC titles but SA still have nothing.

nihari4763165
on June 19, 2017, 8:30 GMT

Pakistan played well and won the trophy. That's as far as it goes I'm afraid. While they richly deserve plaudits for this win, only shortsighted fans can dub them as a "strong" side. They are not even a good side, let alone being a strong one. Give them enough game time and they will unravel. I take no pleasure in saying this, but that's how it has happened all throughout their history. I know this much after having followed world cricket for over 30 years. They have a weak batting unit, a lazy fielding unit and a less than effective bowling unit on various pitches. No decent spinners, no backup keepers of quality and sadly, not enough cricketing smarts in their captain. Teams like Aus, Eng, SA and Ind are rarely denied a trophy in this fashion. Let's enjoy what this is - an oddity, an aberration, an anamoly, a freak sporting bit of trivia for the posterity to savour. Congratulations to the victors.

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